Historical+Perspective

Historical Perspective
Historical perspective is the act of understanding the different social, cultural, intellectual and emotional contexts that helped to shape people's lives and actions in the past. Historical perspective is different from "historical empathy".


 * Aspects of Historical Perspective-Taking**


 * Evidence must be used to take the perspective of people in the past. From that evidence inferences can be made about how they felt and thought. Avoid "presentism" where today's ideas are imposed on the person from the past.


 * There must be recognition that every event would have involved people with diverse perspectives. Understanding the multiple perspectives allows you to have a better understanding of the event.


 * When you take the perspective of the person you do not identify with them.


 * Suggestions for Perspective Taking Tasks**